Harness carries bike hands-free
In the realm of off-road cycling, one must embrace the rugged, unpredictable nature of the terrain. There will undoubtedly be moments when even the most adept cyclist must concede, hoisting their trusty two-wheeled companion over the harshest obstacles. Fear not, for the Hike A Bike Harness has been crafted for such occasions, allowing you to conquer these challenges with both hands free and your bicycle secured upon your back.
The Harness, a creation of British cycling gear artisans Restrap, is fashioned from a resilient, waterproof TPU-coated 1,000-denier nylon. When not called to action, the Harness resides discreetly on the bike's top tube, rolled up into a compact 235-gram bundle, with dimensions of 270 mm long and 70 mm thick.
This ingenious device boasts integrated top-tube and shoulder straps, along with three additional separate straps, each serving a unique purpose. One strap remains coiled around the down tube, while another encircles the non-drive-side chain stay, or possibly the seat tube, depending on your bicycle's equilibrium.
As you prepare to bear your bike, the Harness remains affixed to the top tube, but unfurls to reveal its full potential. Hooks on each shoulder strap engage the down-tube and chain-stay straps, respectively. An optional third strap can be fastened around the down tube and front wheel rim, ensuring alignment between wheel and frame.
Once the Harness is secure, simply don your shoulders with these straps and hoist your noble steed, ready to forge ahead on your adventure.
The Hike A Bike Harness can be acquired through the Restrap website, retailing at a modest US$79.99. For those seeking further insight, a demonstration video is available for your viewing pleasure. It is also worthwhile to explore alternatives such as Outentic and PeakRider, each offering their own unique solutions to this timeless challenge.
Pros:
- Hands-free carrying: The Harness allows cyclists to carry their bikes on their back, keeping their hands free for other tasks or for better balance.
- Durable material: Made from waterproof TPU-coated 1,000-denier nylon, the Harness is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- Compact and lightweight: When not in use, the Harness rolls up into a small, lightweight bundle that is easy to transport and store.
- Adjustable fit: With multiple straps, the Harness can be adjusted to fit various bike sizes and balance points.
- Optional wheel alignment strap: The third strap helps to keep the front wheel aligned with the frame, making carrying the bike more stable and comfortable.
Cons:
- Limited to off-road cycling: The Harness is designed specifically for off-road cyclists and may not be as useful for other types of cycling.
- Additional weight: Although lightweight, the Harness still adds some weight to the bike when not in use.
- Potentially cumbersome setup: The process of unrolling, attaching, and adjusting the straps may be cumbersome or time-consuming for some users.
- Cost: At US$79.99, the price may be a deterrent for some potential buyers.
- Competing products: There are other systems available, such as Outentic and PeakRider, which may offer different advantages or suit individual preferences better.
- Compatibility: The Harness may not be compatible with all bike designs or frame types, which could limit its usefulness for certain riders.
- Comfort: While the Harness is designed to make carrying a bike easier, some users may find it uncomfortable during long or challenging hikes, depending on the weight of their bike and personal preferences.
- Single-purpose design: The Harness is specifically designed for carrying bikes and may not be as versatile as other carrying systems that could be adapted for different purposes.
- Potential wear and tear on the bike: Repeated use of the Harness could potentially cause wear on the frame, straps, or other components of the bike over time.
- Learning curve: There may be a learning curve for first-time users to become familiar with the setup, adjustment, and proper use of the Harness.
- Aesthetic considerations: Some users may not appreciate the appearance of the Harness when it is attached to the bike, or they might find it visually intrusive during their ride.
